how to dry hot chilli,s for use in winter?

freeze them and use them as you need them. Its easy and the hotness stays. I do it with mine.

You can use a food dehydrator, or you could put them in an over at the lowest setting for a few hours spread out on a baking sheet. I personally grow habeneros, I dry them by cutting them up into little ring slices and laying them out on a plastic plate for several days, stirring them occasionally. If any pieces turn really dark/black, throw those pieces away.

Just Sun them whole(including stem) for three to five days turning occasionally, till they are completely dry. Once dry store them as they are or lightly roast them(after removing stems) on slow fire in a pan, cool it and then using coffee grinder, make fine powder and store in a container.

If you want chilli flakes instead of powder, give few short bursts with grinder and store.

Best is to allow them to change colour on tree itself and then pluck them. You may also dry them in shade but will need to turn them around more often.(You may not get the bright colour though)

I use a dehydrator. You can also use a very very low oven. Slice the chili peppers in half and lay them on a rack in a oven set at the lowest temperature. Use the convection fan if you have one. It may take 8-10 hours on low

It was a lovely summer this year... if you were down south like I am :o)

A good way to preserve your chillies is to just leave them in the fridge on a piece of kitchen paper. Seriously, they dehydrate all on their own and won't go mouldy.